The accelerated skilled labour procedure
The accelerated skilled labour procedure offers Schleswig-Holstein companies a fast residence procedure for skilled workers. In the accelerated skilled labour procedure, we act as the interface to recognition offices, the Federal Employment Agency and the German embassies and consulates general abroad. This means that visas can be issued within 1 to 4 months.
As soon as you have decided to hire a foreign skilled worker, you may make use of the accelerated skilled labour procedure in accordance with Section 81a AufenthG (Residence Act) at the Central Office for Skilled Labour Immigration. With the accelerated skilled labour procedure in accordance with Section 81a AufenthG, the legislator has initiated an opportunity to facilitate and accelerate the entry and employment of qualified skilled workers from third countries. The central Foreigners' Authority checks the requirements for granting the permit, coordinates the recognition and obtains the labour market approval of the Federal Employment Agency. Once the documents have been checked and the requirements for granting the visa have been met, a so-called preliminary approval for the visa application is issued. This entitles the applicant to an accelerated appointment and processing at the responsible German diplomatic mission abroad.
The Central Office for Skilled Labour Immigration at the State Office for Immigration and Refugees is responsible for the federal state of Schleswig-Holstein. Further information about the requirements and how to apply can be found on the authority's homepage.
Find out more about the accelerated skilled labour procedure
What is required and how can I make use of the procedure?
If you have already found a suitable skilled worker abroad and would like to hire them as quickly as possible, please send us all relevant documents such as a colour copy of your passport, qualification and employment documents, language certificates and authorisation if applicable to the following e-mail address: zsfe@lfa.landsh.de
We will review your enquiry within a week and check your documents. If you require further advice, we will be happy to contact you.The process only begins once we have concluded an agreement with you. The preliminary review is non-binding and free of charge. At the start of the procedure, fees of EUR 411 will be filed in accordance with Section 47 (1) No. 15 AufenthV (Residence Ordinance).